Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Paresh Rawal triggered a controversy recently saying that tying the leftist writer Arundhati Roy to the Army Jeep would bring peace in Kashmir. The veteran actor clarifies that he does not hold any grudges against Roy, but suggested her to be used as human shield. According to him, the plan would be “beneficial to both the sides”.
Speaking to CNN News 18, Rawal said, “My tweet was interpreted in the wrong manner. I was not advocating for violence. I suggested that Arundhati ji should be placed on the jeep as it could bring peace. Arundhati ji supports the ideology of the stone pelters. Even they admire Arundhati ji and respect her. No one would even touch a stone if she is tied to the Army jeep.”
“Those accusing me of propagating violence are levelling a baseless charge. I had only suggested a solution for long-lasting peace,” Rawat added.
Further defending his argumentative statement on Twitter, Rawat said, “I am a citizen of this nation. As a citizen, it is my duty to defend the Indian Army. I may not be an MP tomorrow, but it would be my right and duty to speak up for those guarding our borders.”
